Opal Cabochons (Triplet – Zodiac)

Zodiac Cabochons (Opal Triplet)

A bit of an oddity, I call these 'Zodiac cabochons'. They are a special form of Opal triplet with a picture showing one of the Zodiac signs.

I have never seen these before and probably never will again - I only have one of each. They came from a retiring lapidaries collection. They are sold singly.

They are all oval 18x13MM cabochons with a flat back, however, some do have some damage:

• Aquarius - undamaged.
• Aries (Ram) - damage to the right-hand side of the cabochon.
• Capricorn (Goat) - undamaged.
• Virgo - undamaged.
• Libra (Scales) - damage to the left-hand side of the cabochon.
• Taurus (Bull) - damage to the right-hand side of the cabochon.
• Sagittarius - undamaged.

I have tried to show the damage in the photographs. It isn't major but is noticeable - certain methods of setting may cover it up.

A triplet cabochon consists of three slices stuck together; a slice of a dark matrix stone for backing, a thin slice of opal with fire, and a Quartz or other clear dome on top to protect the opal. It allows you to get a lot of fire in a cabochon without too high a price point. These, however, may consist of four slices. It's hard to say! In all likelihood, they are Opal with a black inlay around the Opal, in the same slice.

These pieces are perfect for rings and necklaces or earrings. As a dark stone, these pieces can be set nicely in Silver, Gold, Platinum, Titanium, and other metals.

The pictures you see here are representative of the products and are usually not the exact item you will receive. Where various grades are available we do try to photograph each grade - but some photographs are still on their way!